A LOOSE Women legend returned to the show today four years after quitting.
The panel and audience were delighted to welcome the programme’s longest serving anchor back.
Appearing with a trademark beaming smile on her face, Andrea McLean, 54, entered the studio.
Today’s episode was a Surprise Surprise special, paying tribute to the iconic ITV show, hosted by the late Cilla Black, on its 40th anniversary.
And the biggest surprise was saved for last.
Andrea, who spent 13 years in the hot seat, told the audience she will be returning in September for the show’s 25th anniversary celebrations.
She said of her return: “The main feeling I had when I walked in… Last time I was here I had to have my temperature taken, I had a mask, there was no audience, it was such a scary time.
“Because its back to normal now, we forget that moment in time.
“It’s been like a Mexican wave as a I walked in. It’s lovely, it feels like home, it feels so good.”
Fans were thrilled with one writing on X: “Really nice to see you back on LW today! Missed you!!”
Another said: “I liked #AndreaMclean One of the best!”
Brenda Edwards then sang Surprise Surprise as the panellists – Nadia Sawalha, Judi Love and Christine Lampard – got on their feet.
Earlier in the episode Brenda was taught to swim by Olympian Rebecca Adlington and was reduced to tears when her daughter Tanisha made a surprise appearance in the studio.
Judi also became emotional after being surprised with a lovely video message from a close friend, and Nadia Sawalha was delighted to be joined by her girl pals during the feel-good show.
